How to Grow Ennis Hazelnut
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Ennis Hazelnut
Corylus avellana 'Ennis'
shrubEnnis is a productive European hazelnut cultivar prized for its large, flavorful nuts and excellent yields. This deciduous shrub grows 12-15 feet tall and wide, producing abundant catkins in early spring followed by clusters of edible hazelnuts in fall. It's one of the most commercially viable hazelnut varieties for home gardeners in temperate climates.
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Example Ennis Hazelnut timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ennis Hazelnut
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ennis Hazelnut
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ennis Hazelnut dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 5-8 are ideal; hardy to zone 4b with some winter protection
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Get my Ennis Hazelnut timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
Year 1Young shrub develops root system and framework branches. Growth is moderate the first year.
Water regularly without waterlogging. Mulch base with 3-4 inches of organic material. Prune to develop open framework with 3-5 main stems. Protect from harsh winter winds.
Vegetative Growth
Years 2-3Shrub grows taller and wider, developing dense branching. Foliage is dark green and oval-shaped.
Continue regular watering. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring. Prune to remove crossing branches and maintain open center for light penetration. Remove suckers at base.
Flowering
4-6 weeks in late winterIn late winter (February-March), distinctive long male catkins appear, hanging from branches. Female flowers are tiny, barely visible as red stigmas.
Ensure adequate chilling hours (400-700 hours below 45°F) for proper flowering. Do not prune during flowering. Note: Ennis may need a compatible pollinator; Barcelona or other early-flowering hazelnuts help.
Fruiting & Nut Development
April-AugustSmall nuts develop from fertilized female flowers, enclosed in leafy husks. Nuts mature and harden through summer.
Maintain consistent moisture; inadequate water reduces nut quality. Fertilize with balanced NPK in spring. Monitor for pest and disease pressure. Thin branches if needed for air circulation.
Harvest
September-NovemberNuts mature and brown husks split and dry. Nuts fall to ground or can be knocked from branches starting in September.
Harvest fallen nuts daily to prevent wildlife feeding and mold. Cure nuts in warm, dry location (65-75°F) for 2-3 weeks before storage. Shell nuts to check interior quality.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor with pheromone traps; remove fallen nuts promptly; spray with spinosad or insecticidal soap if populations are high
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Prune out infested buds in winter; apply dormant oil in late winter; ensure good air circulation
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs; avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen
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Hand-pick early morning; use Japanese beetle traps away from shrub; apply neem oil if damage is severe
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Prune infected branches 12 inches below canker and sterilize tools; choose resistant cultivars; maintain good sanitation
Uses
Gourmet eating and confectionery
CulinaryEnnis nuts are prized for their large size and rich, sweet flavor, ideal for roasting, eating fresh, or use in chocolate (particularly renowned in European confectionery). The nuts can be ground into hazelnut flour for baking or made into hazelnut butter. [source]
Oil and butter production
CulinaryHazelnut oil is cold-pressed from the kernels and used in cooking, salad dressings, and baking. Hazelnut butter rivals almond butter as a nutritious spread. [source]
Heart health and antioxidants
MedicinalHazelnuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and polyphenols, supporting cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation. [source]
Ornamental and shade value
HouseholdThe shrub's attractive branching structure, catkins in early spring, and dense summer foliage provide year-round ornamental interest and useful shade in the landscape. [source]
Wildlife food source
WildlifeHazelnuts provide essential nutrition for squirrels, jays, woodpeckers, and other wildlife; catkins offer early season pollen and nectar for pollinators. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest in fall (September-November) when nuts fall naturally or shake branches gently over cloth. Collect daily to prevent pest infestation of fallen nuts. Cure harvested nuts in warm, dry, well-ventilated area at 65-75°F for 2-3 weeks. Store in cool, dry location; properly cured and stored nuts keep 1-2 years. Crack open a sample to ensure kernels are plump and flavorful before long-term storage.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ennis hazelnuts are among the largest hazelnut varieties available, making them commercially attractive and ideal for home growers seeking maximum harvest from space.
- 🌱 Hazelnut catkins are among the first flowers to bloom in late winter, often appearing in February when snow may still be on the ground, providing early-season food for bees.
- 🌱 Oregon produces 99% of America's hazelnuts; growing Ennis at home supports regional agricultural diversity and reduces imported nut reliance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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